This spring, he was one of three University of Houston students to win an award for undergraduate research from the Intercultural Cancer Council, an organization that seeks to reduce cancer among minorities and the medically underserved.

Award won

Working with Michael Rea, a UH professor, Figueroa won the award for his research on the body's biological clock, or circadian rhythms, which control sleep cycles.

Figueroa, who is from Freeport, hopes his research will help in the treatment of sleep disorders.

"My research could ultimately provide a test that might be able to identify drugs that would reset the biological clock and in the future enable us to treat sleep abnormalities," Figueroa said.

UH senior Adham Bear and Marisa Rodriguez, who graduated from UH in May, also received awards for their research.

Council formed

"We are extremely proud of all our students who represented the University of Houston, and were particularly pleased with the acknowledgment received by our three outstanding students who presented award-winning work," John Bear said.

Figueroa and the other ICC participants have gone on to form the Collegiate Cancer Council, an organization that aims to raise cancer awareness in the area around the university.

In particular, Figueroa wants to help the grounds keepers at the campus by providing cancer education and free skin tests.

His background has also fueled a desire to go to medical school when he graduates next spring.

"We never really went to the doctor when we were sick. Promoting health care to minorities is one of my career objectives," Figueroa said.

If you have a suggestion for a "Faces in the Crowd" profile, contact Richard Zagrzecki at richard.zagrzecki@chron.com or send a fax to 713-362-7552.